44645, Marshallville, Ohio Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 44645, Marshallville, Ohio is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Lung Cancer Care Near Massillon, Ohio (ZIP Code 44645): A Comprehensive Review**

Navigating a lung cancer diagnosis is daunting. Accessing high-quality care near Massillon, Ohio (ZIP code 44645) requires understanding available resources. This review examines hospitals within a reasonable radius, focusing on their lung cancer services, performance metrics, and accessibility.

**Cleveland Clinic: A Regional Powerhouse**

The Cleveland Clinic, a nationally recognized institution, is a significant player in lung cancer treatment for residents near Massillon. While not directly in Massillon, its main campus is accessible and offers comprehensive cancer care. The Clinic's Taussig Cancer Center is a flagship facility, boasting advanced diagnostic and treatment options. It is consistently ranked among the nation's best for cancer care by U.S. News & World Report.

The Cleveland Clinic's lung cancer program offers a multidisciplinary approach. Patients benefit from collaborative care involving pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and other specialists. The Clinic emphasizes early detection through screening programs and utilizes cutting-edge technologies like robotic-assisted surgery and advanced radiation therapy techniques.

The Cleveland Clinic’s CMS (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services) star rating is a useful indicator of overall hospital quality. While the main campus’s rating fluctuates, it generally maintains a high score, reflecting good patient outcomes and safety records. However, it is important to note that the CMS star rating is a general measure and may not specifically reflect lung cancer program performance.

**Akron General Medical Center (Cleveland Clinic Akron General): Expanding Access**

The Cleveland Clinic's presence extends beyond its main campus. Akron General Medical Center, located in Akron, Ohio, is part of the Cleveland Clinic health system and provides another option for residents near Massillon. This facility offers a range of cancer services, including lung cancer treatment.

Akron General's lung cancer program benefits from the resources and expertise of the larger Cleveland Clinic network. Patients can access similar treatment modalities and benefit from the same research and clinical trials available at the main campus. While Akron General might not have the same national rankings as the main campus, it provides a convenient and accessible option for those seeking high-quality care closer to home.

**Aultman Hospital: A Community-Focused Option**

Aultman Hospital in Canton, Ohio, is a community-focused hospital serving the Massillon area. Aultman offers a comprehensive cancer program, including services for lung cancer. The hospital's approach emphasizes personalized care and patient support.

Aultman’s lung cancer program focuses on early detection, diagnosis, and treatment. They offer advanced imaging technologies, surgical options, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. While Aultman may not have the same volume of patients as larger, tertiary care centers, they provide a valuable service to the community.

Aultman Hospital's CMS star rating is an important factor to consider. The hospital's rating provides insight into its overall quality and patient safety. However, like other hospitals, it is essential to supplement this information with specific data about their lung cancer program.

**Mercy Medical Center: Local Care in Canton**

Mercy Medical Center, also located in Canton, Ohio, is another option for lung cancer care near Massillon. Mercy offers a range of cancer services, including diagnosis, treatment, and supportive care. They have a dedicated cancer center that provides a multidisciplinary approach to patient care.

Mercy Medical Center provides a comprehensive cancer program. They provide diagnostic services, including advanced imaging techniques, and offer a range of treatment options, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. The hospital emphasizes a patient-centered approach, with support services to help patients and their families navigate their cancer journey.

**ER Wait Times: A Crucial Consideration**

Emergency room wait times are a significant factor when evaluating healthcare facilities. For patients experiencing symptoms related to lung cancer or requiring urgent care, timely access to medical attention is critical. The Cleveland Clinic, due to its size and complexity, may sometimes experience longer ER wait times. Akron General, as a part of the same system, might have similar wait times. Aultman and Mercy Medical Center, being community hospitals, may potentially have shorter wait times, though this can fluctuate based on patient volume. Checking real-time wait times on hospital websites or through online resources is essential.

**Specialty Centers and Expertise**

The Cleveland Clinic's Taussig Cancer Center is a dedicated specialty center with a wealth of expertise in lung cancer. They have specialists in all areas of lung cancer treatment, including medical oncologists, thoracic surgeons, radiation oncologists, and pulmonologists. They also have specialized programs for specific types of lung cancer and offer access to clinical trials.

Aultman and Mercy Medical Center, while not having dedicated specialty centers of the same scale, still have experienced physicians and offer comprehensive cancer services. Their focus is on providing high-quality care within the community.

**Telehealth and Remote Monitoring**

Telehealth services have become increasingly important, particularly for cancer patients. The Cleveland Clinic has a robust telehealth program, offering virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring. This can be especially beneficial for patients who live far from the main campus or have mobility issues. Akron General, as part of the same system, likely offers similar telehealth options.

Aultman and Mercy Medical Center are also increasing their telehealth capabilities. Telehealth can be used for follow-up appointments, medication management, and providing educational resources.

**Clinical Trials and Research**

The Cleveland Clinic is a leading research institution, and its Taussig Cancer Center participates in numerous clinical trials for lung cancer. This provides patients with access to the latest treatment options and innovative therapies. Akron General also benefits from the research activities of the Cleveland Clinic.

Aultman and Mercy Medical Center may offer access to clinical trials through collaborations with other institutions or through their own research programs.

**Accessibility and Insurance Coverage**

Accessibility is a crucial factor. The Cleveland Clinic's main campus is accessible via major highways, but travel time can be a factor. Akron General is closer to Massillon. Aultman and Mercy Medical Center are even more accessible.

Insurance coverage is another important consideration. It is essential to verify that the hospital and physicians are in-network with your insurance plan. Contacting the hospital's billing department and your insurance provider will help clarify coverage details.

**Patient Support Services**

All hospitals mentioned offer patient support services. These services include counseling, support groups, nutrition counseling, and financial assistance. The Cleveland Clinic has extensive support services, reflecting its focus on patient-centered care. Aultman and Mercy Medical Center also offer a range of support services tailored to the needs of their patients.

**Conclusion: Making an Informed Choice**

Choosing the right hospital for lung cancer treatment requires careful consideration of various factors. The Cleveland Clinic offers a comprehensive, nationally recognized program with access to cutting-edge treatments and clinical trials. Akron General provides a more accessible option within the Cleveland Clinic system. Aultman and Mercy Medical Center offer local care and a community-focused approach.

Residents near Massillon, Ohio, should research each hospital's lung cancer program, considering factors such as physician expertise, treatment options, access to clinical trials, ER wait times, telehealth capabilities, CMS star ratings, and insurance coverage. Consulting with your primary care physician and seeking referrals from trusted sources is also highly recommended. Ultimately, the best choice depends on individual needs, preferences, and priorities.